Across Wales, hundreds of smokers quit every year thanks to the incredible work of pharmacists, hospital staff, midwives, and smoking cessation advisors involved in the Help Me Quit service by NHS Wales. Among them is Gwawr Davies Jones, a Barry-based pharmacist who has dedicated over a decade to helping people stop smoking and transform their lives.

The Key to Success: Mindset and Timing

For Gwawr, the secret to quitting smoking successfully lies in timing and the right mindset. Having run smoking cessation services across south Wales, she has honed her approach to identify the best time for people to start their quit journey.

“It’s all about people being in the right frame of mind,” Gwawr says. “If someone is going through a stressful time, has a holiday coming up, or it’s mid-December, it’s usually better to wait. I’ve learned these factors can reduce the chances of quitting successfully.”

Through her service at High Street Pharmacy in Barry, Gwawr supports smokers through a 12-week programme with seven one-to-one sessions. Participants receive free Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), including patches and gum, while using a CO Monitor to track their carbon monoxide levels-a tool Gwawr says is incredibly motivating.

“The CO Monitor is like being weighed at Slimming World. People see their carbon monoxide levels dropping and feel proud of their progress,” Gwawr explains. “It’s a tangible way to show the benefits of quitting even after just 48 hours.”

A Personalised Approach

Gwawr’s approach is tailored to each individual, whether they’re a teenager or in their 80s. She sees smokers on an individual basis rather than in group settings, which allows her to adapt to their unique circumstances and motivations.

“With younger people, it’s about being motivational-they don’t care about their health as much, so lecturing doesn’t work. For older smokers, they’re usually serious about quitting, so they just need encouragement and a pat on the back.”

For parents, Gwawr finds involving their children makes a big difference. “I let the kids blow into the CO Monitor, and they love it. Making the sessions fun helps the parents feel supported and encourages them to come back.”

Overcoming Setbacks

While Gwawr boasts a 40% success rate, not everyone manages to quit on their first attempt. For those who struggle, she takes a positive and supportive approach.

“If someone’s finding it tough, I say, ‘Let’s draw a line under this. Don’t beat yourself up.’ I find they’re far more likely to try again if they leave feeling encouraged rather than judged.”

The Power of Motivation

For many smokers, the fear of smoking-related illnesses is the ultimate driver to quit. Gwawr has seen first-hand how quitting transforms lives:

“I recently had someone come in and say, ‘Do you know it’s been a year since my last cigarette?’ Moments like that make it all worth it. I get to know people during those 12 weeks, and by the end, we’ve built a real connection. Seeing their progress is so rewarding.”

Support to Quit Smoking

If you’re ready to quit smoking, Help Me Quit, run by NHS Wales, can help you find the best stop smoking service for your needs. Call 0800 085 2219 or visit www.helpmequit.wales for more information.

You can also find quitting tips and advice on the ASH Wales website.

Gwawr’s story highlights the incredible impact that personalised support, encouragement, and the right tools can have on a smoker’s journey to becoming smoke-free. If you’re thinking of quitting, remember-it’s never too late to take that first step.